Comparison of the Effectiveness of Miswak and Manual Toothbrush in Removing Dental Plaque in Fixed Orthodontic Patients

This study compares the immediate plaque removal efficacy of the natural Miswak versus a traditional manual toothbrush using the Modified Bass technique among orthodontic patients. The main question it aims to answer is: Are there statistically significant differences in the post-brushing plaque index reduction between the dental arch side cleaned with Miswak and the contralateral side cleaned with a manual toothbrush?

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged between 18 and 30 years old. * Presence of fixed orthodontic appliances (brackets and wires) on both upper and lower arches. * Good general systemic health with the absence of any medical conditions that might affect oral health status. Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of advanced or aggressive periodontal diseases. * Current smokers. * Use of antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwashes within 24 hours prior to the study session. * Systemic antibiotic intake within the past 2 weeks preceding the experiment. * Any physical or motor disability that could hinder the patient's capacity to perform proper tooth brushing.